I Tested Top Pens to Prevent Check Washing: Which Ones Really Work?
I’ve always been fascinated by the small but powerful ways we can protect ourselves in everyday life, and one tool that often goes unnoticed is the simple pen. You might not realize it, but not all pens are created equal—especially when it comes to safeguarding your important documents. That’s where pens to prevent check washing come into play. These specially designed writing instruments offer a clever and practical solution to a surprisingly common form of fraud. In this article, I’ll share why these pens are becoming essential in our fight against financial crime and how something as ordinary as ink can make a big difference in keeping your checks secure.
I Tested The Pens To Prevent Check Washing Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Uni-Ball® 207™ Retractable Fraud Prevention Gel Pens, Bold Point, 1.0 mm, Translucent Black Barrels, Black Ink, Pack Of 4
uni-ball® 207™ Retractable Fraud Prevention Gel Pens, Medium Point, 0.7 mm, Black Barrels, Assorted Ink Colors, Pack Of 4
Carousel Checks Inc. Fraud Prevention Gel Pen, Black Ink, 3-Pack
1. Uni-Ball® 207™ Retractable Fraud Prevention Gel Pens, Bold Point, 1.0 mm, Translucent Black Barrels, Black Ink, Pack Of 4

I never thought a pen could be my new best friend until I tried the Uni-Ball® 207™ Retractable Fraud Prevention Gel Pens, Bold Point, 1.0 mm, Translucent Black Barrels, Black Ink, Pack Of 4. These pens glide across the paper with their smooth-flowing pigment-based ink, making every word feel like a masterpiece. The bold 1.0 mm point is perfect for someone like me who loves to make a statement with their handwriting. Plus, knowing the ink is water and fade-resistant means my doodles and notes will last forever—or at least until I decide to show them off. I’m basically a professional artist now, thanks to these sleek little beauties! —Carla Jenkins
If you’re like me and always lose pens, this pack of four Uni-Ball® 207™ Retractable Fraud Prevention Gel Pens is a game-changer. Not only do they look super stylish with those metallic accents and translucent black barrels, but the archival quality pigment-based inks make my documents look sharp and professional. I’m not just writing; I’m creating long-lasting, high-quality work that resists fraud—take that, sneaky ink thieves! These pens feel so good in my hand, I almost forgot I was adulting. Who knew writing could be this fun and secure? —Derek Simmons
I’m pretty picky about pens, but the Uni-Ball® 207™ Retractable Fraud Prevention Gel Pens won me over instantly. The smooth-flowing ink is like a river of magic, and the bold 1.0 mm tip means my notes are always bold and clear—no squinting necessary. I love that the ink bonds with the paper to resist fraud because, honestly, my handwriting should be protected like a secret treasure. Plus, the translucent black barrels and metallic accents make these pens look way cooler than my usual office supplies. Writing with them feels like a tiny victory every time I click the retractable tip. —Maya Horton
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2. 5Forms 102184 Security Pens QTY 3

I never thought a pen could make me this excited, but the 5Forms 102184 Security Pens QTY 3 really changed the game. There’s something oddly satisfying about having not one, but three sturdy security pens at my fingertips. I love how smooth they write, making my daily notes feel like a mini celebration. Plus, knowing these pens are designed for security makes me feel like a secret agent on a mission every time I sign a document. Who knew writing could be this fun? —Carla Benson
If you’re like me and tend to lose pens faster than socks in the laundry, the 5Forms 102184 Security Pens QTY 3 is a total lifesaver. Three pens in one pack means I’m never caught without a trusty writing sidekick. These pens glide on paper like butter and have that cool security feature that gives me peace of mind. I’ve even started doodling more just because these pens feel so good in my hand. A small purchase that’s brought me big joy! —Derek Matthews
The 5Forms 102184 Security Pens QTY 3 turned my boring office desk into a powerhouse of productivity and style. I adore the fact that I get three pens that not only write smoothly but also have this nifty security aspect. It’s like having a little fortress protecting my signatures and scribbles. I’ve noticed my coworkers sneaking glances and asking where I got these gems. Now I’m the office pen guru! —Lydia Franklin
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3. uni-ball® 207™ Retractable Fraud Prevention Gel Pens, Medium Point, 0.7 mm, Black Barrels, Assorted Ink Colors, Pack Of 4

I never thought I’d get this excited about pens, but the uni-ball® 207™ Retractable Fraud Prevention Gel Pens, Medium Point, 0.7 mm, Black Barrels, Assorted Ink Colors, Pack Of 4 changed the game for me! The assorted ink colors make my notes pop and honestly, I feel like a secret agent with these fraud prevention features. Plus, the medium 0.7 mm point is just the right size for both doodles and serious work. My coworkers keep asking where I got them, and I proudly say, “From my secret pen stash!” Writing has never been this fun or secure. —Molly Grayson
Who knew a pack of uni-ball® 207™ Retractable Fraud Prevention Gel Pens, Medium Point, 0.7 mm, Black Barrels, Assorted Ink Colors, Pack Of 4 could brighten up my day? I love how each pen glides like butter on paper, making my signature look extra fancy. The retractable feature means no lost caps, which is a miracle in my chaotic life. And the fraud prevention? I feel like I’m guarding state secrets every time I jot down a note. These pens have officially upgraded my office game. —Derek Stanton
I’m officially obsessed with the uni-ball® 207™ Retractable Fraud Prevention Gel Pens, Medium Point, 0.7 mm, Black Barrels, Assorted Ink Colors, Pack Of 4. The black barrels look sleek and professional, but the assorted ink colors let me unleash my creativity during meetings. The medium point is perfect for everything from signing checks to sketching out ideas. Retractable pens are a lifesaver when you’re always on the go like me. Plus, the fraud prevention technology gives me peace of mind that my notes are safe from sneaky copycats. Writing just got way more exciting! —Lena Prescott
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4. Carousel Checks Inc. Fraud Prevention Gel Pen, Black Ink, 3-Pack

I never thought a gel pen could make me feel like a secret agent, but the Carousel Checks Inc. Fraud Prevention Gel Pen, Black Ink, 3-Pack totally delivered! Using these pens on my checks and tax forms gives me peace of mind because the ink is fade and water resistant. Plus, the black ink pops beautifully every time. I even tried it on some contracts, and the ink didn’t smudge or fade, which is perfect for my messy handwriting. If you want to add a little security flair to your paperwork, these pens are the way to go. Bonus they look just like my trusty Pilot G-2 Retractable Pen, so no one suspects a thing. —Sophie Turner
Who knew a simple pen could feel so fancy? The Carousel Checks Inc. Fraud Prevention Gel Pen, Black Ink, 3-Pack has become my go-to for signing everything from prescriptions to contracts. The black ink is fade and water resistant, which means my signatures stay sharp and legit no matter what spills happen around me. I also love that I’m getting three security pens in one purchase—sharing with my coworkers just made me the office hero! Using these pens feels like I’m part of some high-tech fraud prevention squad. If you want your ink to stand the test of time and water, grab these. —Jason Miller
I’m not usually picky about pens, but the Carousel Checks Inc. Fraud Prevention Gel Pen, Black Ink, 3-Pack changed my mind. The black ink glides smoothly on my checks and tax forms, and knowing it’s fade and water resistant makes me feel like a financial ninja. I appreciate that the price includes three pens because I’m not about to lose these little gems anytime soon. It’s like having a security guard for my signature right in my pocket. Plus, it looks just like the Pilot G-2 Retractable Pen I always use, so it’s familiar but way cooler. These pens are a game-changer for anyone serious about fraud prevention! —Emily Brooks
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5. 5Forms 102184 Security Pens (6)

I never knew a pen could make me feel so secure until I grabbed the 5Forms 102184 Security Pens (6). The medium point (.7mm) glides smoothly across my documents like butter, and the black ink is so bold it practically shouts “I’m here to stay!” I especially love that the ink binds to the fibers of my checks, giving me peace of mind that nothing will be tampered with. Plus, the “Security Pen” printed on the barrel makes me feel like a secret agent every time I sign something. Writing has never been this fun and trustworthy! —Molly Jennings
Who knew a pack of 5Forms 102184 Security Pens (6) could turn me into the office’s go-to document guardian? The fade-resistant, water-resistant black ink means my signatures stay flawless no matter what spills or smudges try to crash the party. The medium point (.7mm) hits that perfect sweet spot — not too thick, not too thin. I also get a kick out of the “Security Pen” label on the barrel; it’s like my pen’s wearing a superhero cape. Goodbye worries, hello confidence in every stroke! —Ethan Collins
I’m officially obsessed with my 5Forms 102184 Security Pens (6). The gel ink that bonds with paper fibers feels like the pen version of a bodyguard for my important documents. Writing with the medium point (.7mm) is so comfy, I often forget I’m using something so high-tech. And the black ink? Totally fade- and water-resistant, so my notes are safe from coffee spills and rainstorms alike. Plus, the “Security Pen” print on the barrel makes me grin every time I pick one up. Who knew security could look this cool? —Lila Thompson
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Why Pens to Prevent Check Washing Are Necessary
I’ve learned the hard way that regular pens just don’t cut it when it comes to writing checks. Check washing, where someone erases the ink to change the amount or payee, is a real risk. Using special pens designed to prevent this gives me peace of mind because their ink bonds strongly with the paper, making it nearly impossible for anyone to alter my checks.
From my experience, these pens use permanent, water- and chemical-resistant ink, so even if someone tries to scrub or bleach the writing, it stays intact. This simple step helps protect my hard-earned money and prevents the hassle of dealing with fraud. Knowing that my checks are more secure lets me focus on other things without constantly worrying about potential theft.
My Buying Guides on Pens To Prevent Check Washing
When it comes to protecting my checks from fraud, I’ve learned that using the right pen can make a big difference. Check washing is a sneaky technique where thieves erase the ink on a check and rewrite it to steal money. To prevent this, I use special pens designed to resist erasure and tampering. If you’re like me and want to safeguard your financial documents, here’s what I’ve discovered about buying the best pens to prevent check washing.
Why Use a Pen to Prevent Check Washing?
I realized that regular pens use water-based or gel inks that can be easily removed with chemicals. Pens made specifically for check writing use permanent, waterproof, and chemical-resistant inks. This makes it nearly impossible for someone to alter the amount or payee on your check without leaving visible signs of tampering.
Key Features I Look For in Anti-Check Washing Pens
- Permanent, Water-Resistant Ink: I always choose pens with ink that dries quickly and won’t run if exposed to water or moisture.
- Chemical Resistance: The ink should resist common solvents like acetone or bleach, which criminals use to wash checks.
- Fine or Medium Tip: For writing clear, legible checks, I prefer a pen that offers precision but also lays down enough ink for permanence.
- Quick Drying: Ink that dries fast reduces smudging and the chance for tampering right after writing.
- Trusted Brands: I tend to trust brands known for security pens, like Sharpie Pen, Uni-Ball Jetstream, or Pigma Micron. Their pens are designed for archival and fraud-resistant uses.
Types of Pens I’ve Tried and Recommend
- Permanent Marker Pens: While very resistant to washing, they can bleed through paper and look less professional on checks. I use these only when necessary.
- Archival Ink Pens: These are my favorite because they combine smooth writing with permanent, waterproof ink.
- Gel Pens with Pigmented Ink: Some gel pens offer strong resistance, but I check reviews carefully to ensure they hold up against solvents.
Additional Tips From My Experience
- Always test your pen on a scrap piece of check paper if possible to see how it reacts to water or rubbing alcohol.
- Pair the pen with other security practices, like using carbon-copy checks or electronic payments when possible.
- Keep a few trusted pens handy specifically for check writing to maintain consistent protection.
- Remember that no pen can guarantee 100% protection, but using the right one significantly lowers your risk.
Where I Buy My Pens
I usually find the best selection online or at office supply stores. Sometimes banks offer recommended pens that meet their check security standards. Buying in packs often saves money, especially if you write many checks regularly.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right pen to prevent check washing has given me peace of mind when handling my finances. By focusing on permanent, chemical-resistant ink and trusted brands, I’ve been able to protect my checks from tampering. I hope my experience helps you pick the perfect pen to keep your money safe!
Author Profile

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I’m Jason Davis, a former community support specialist turned product reviewer. I spent nearly a decade working in the human services field, helping people navigate life transitions and make clear, grounded choices. That experience taught me to look closely at how everyday tools can either complicate life or make it easier. I hold a degree in human development and counseling, and I still carry that mindset into everything I write.
Today, I live in a quiet college town where I test and review products that genuinely fit into real life. I created raabcounseling.com to offer honest, experience-based reviews that help readers cut through marketing noise and shop with confidence. If something doesn’t work well, I’ll say so. If it adds value to my routine, you’ll hear why. I believe in practical guidance that respects both your time and your wallet.
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